Hot coffee is healthier than cold, says study

If consumed in moderation, former lowers risk of cancer, diabetes and depression

With winter approaching, many people will be inclined towards having hot drinks over cold, including coffee. While iced lattes and frappuccinos have been everyone’s summer craze, it’s probably best to forget about them now. Hot coffee has higher levels of antioxidants than cold, which is believed to be responsible for some health benefits, says a new study. The reading explored that hot coffee has some measurable health benefits, including lower risk of some cancers, diabetes and depression, reports Business Standard.

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Researchers from the Thomas Jefferson University in the US showed that hot coffee had more total titratable acids – any acid that can lose proton(s) in an acid-base reaction – which may be responsible for the hot cup's higher antioxidant levels. "Coffee has a lot of antioxidants. If you drink it in moderation, research shows it can be pretty good for you. We found the hot brew has more antioxidant capacity," said Megan Fuller, an Assistant Professor from the varsity.

PHOTO: HEALTH MAG

Results published in the journal Scientific Reports also found that pH levels - acidity indicator - of both hot and cold coffee were similar, ranging from 4.85 to 5.13 for all coffee samples tested.  However, coffee companies and lifestyle blogs have tended to tout cold brew coffee as being less acidic than hot coffee and thus less likely to cause heartburn or gastrointestinal problems. "Considering hot and cold brews have comparable pH levels, coffee drinkers should not consider cold brew a 'silver bullet' for avoiding gastrointestinal distress," says Niny Rao, Associate Professor at the university.

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